Amazing Sunday to hike, arrived at 945am and there were already 7 rows of cars parked. When they say this one is popular, they totally mean it. When I left around 330pm I saw there were cars parked even outside on the road. The first half of the trail is normal train but it’s a climb, you start going up right away. The second half I would highly recommend micro spikes. Those without looked nervous and had to go at beyond a snails pace and it didn’t look like they were having fun. The view at the top was totally worth the climb. 100% worth it. I didn’t tackle haystack but there was a ton of snow at the top and I was hiking solo. Will try again in the summer when the snow is clear but I head out way earlier in the morning.

This was a fun hike! Lots of elevation gain which made for a great workout. The view at the top was fantastic even though it was cloudy. I saw a few small birds and a raven. Micro spikes for the bottom of your boots will make this hike much safer especially when you are descending as there are some icy patches. The trail is heavily used so the snow is well compacted.

I’ve done this one in the summer and after today once in the winter. Obviously the summer is better but if your looking for a good winter hike that is easy to get to without too much snow this is it. The last half mile is slippery with snow so pick up some micro spikes. Also good to have water proof hiking boots. FYI this is a long hike and it’s pretty steep so be ready!

Beautiful and well maintained trail. Definitely a challenge that was well worth the accomplishment. There was a good amount of snow at the top and there wasn't much of a view due to the weather, but still worth it! Also protect your food, those birds at the top were food snatchers!

It was supposed to be a rainy day today, but to my surprise the sun was out and shining. The top was beautiful and totally worth the burn. I'm not in that good of shape so this hike pushed me pretty hard. Definitely wear comfy hiking shoes that can handle the rocky and muddy terrain. Going down was rough on my knees (didn't use sticks). The views at the top are breathtaking. No matter where you look - it's gorgeous.

When I hike, I like a challenge, followed by a big payoff. I wasn't thinking this morning and skipped breakfast, so by the time I reached the top I was exhausted. Took about 2.25 hours, but the payoff was incredible. 360 degree views of snow capped peaks, rivers, and the valley. Going down took about 1.5 hours. Sunset was at 4:45, we left the top at 3:45, and we were able to hike without headlamps til about 5:05. The trail was wet, running with water for the first mile, then dry the rest of the way up. A quarter mile or less from the top, the wind was blowing like crazy, and the temp was freezing. I wore a light jacket and wished I had gloves, but only at the top.

Pretty hard trail: it’s steep and there isn’t much to be distracted by on the way up. However, the 360-degree views of the Cascade and Olympic ranges, Seattle, Bellevue, Mt. Rainer, and surrounding communities make it well worth it. Extremely windy at the summit, but definitely manageable.

Completed this hike on Saturday, Jan 6. I haven't done a summit since summer, so I was really pushing myself on this one. There was no snow until the false summit right before the haystack. Did not attempt the haystack as it had started freezing rain as soon as I reached the top.
I was perfectly fine in a light hiking long-sleeve on the way up until I reached the top. Was very happy I packed my rain jacket, gloves and a winter cap for the top in my backpack for the trek. You'll need it!
Trail is well marked, and although it was rainy and completely foggy at the top so there was no real "view," the hike itself was great and the landscape in and of itself is beautiful.

One of my favorite hikes for a great workout. Hiked on 12/21 and there was snow maybe halfway up? Good amount up top. It’s winter - bring appropriate clothing for temperature changes. Don’t try Haystack, real dicey. Took 1:41 up and 1:05 down. Beautiful day.

Beautiful hike and not too challenging for an experienced hiker. Amazing to watch the rain change to snow as you climb in elevation! It’s a winter wonderland at the top. About a foot of snow. Dress in layers and prepare for the temperature change.